How many public sector banks are operating in India, as on 1 May 2025?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) 12
Explanation:
• As on 1 May 2025, India has 12 Public Sector Banks (PSBs) in operation.
• This number has remained stable since the major consolidation and mergers completed in 2020.
• The mergers reduced the count from 27 PSBs (pre-2017) to 12, which continues unchanged.
• The list includes SBI and 11 other nationalised banks.
• Verified through official government and RBI notifications and remains the officially recognised PSB count till 2025.
Information Booster:
• Key mergers:
– Vijaya Bank + Dena Bank → Bank of Baroda (2019)
– Oriental Bank of Commerce + United Bank of India → Punjab National Bank (2020)
– Andhra Bank + Corporation Bank → Union Bank of India (2020)
– Allahabad Bank → Indian Bank (2020)
– Syndicate Bank → Canara Bank (2020)
• The consolidation aimed to improve banking efficiency, capital strength, and customer service.